Manipur: Call for Immediate Intervention to Restore Peace and Harmony

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The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI), officially representing 14 million Christians belonging to the Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India, expresses deep sense of anguish and concern regarding the recent escalation of violence and unrest in the state of Manipur. It has been almost two years since the outbreak of ethnic strife in the region, and the situation continues to spiral out of control, leading to widespread suffering, loss of life, displacement, and immense hardship for the people.

The gravity of the situation cannot be overstated. The people of Manipur are caught in a state of utter hopelessness, as their lives have been disrupted by relentless violence and insecurity. Families have been torn apart, and entire communities have been displaced from their homes. Children could not continue their studies. Basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare are no longer accessible to many, as the conflict disrupts the normal functioning of society. The continued instability is eroding the very social fabric of Manipur, and the toll on the mental and physical well-being of the people is staggering.

We strongly condemn the violence in the strongest terms and express our grave concern over the lack of sufficient and timely intervention by the authorities. Despite numerous appeals from various sections of society, the conflict remains unresolved, and the suffering of the people continues unabated. We believe that the failure to restore peace and security in Manipur is not only a national tragedy but also a reflection of the systemic breakdown of governance and the rule of law in the state.

We urge the Government of India to take immediate and decisive steps to end the violence in Manipur and restore peace. Specifically, we urge the following:

  1. Immediate and Robust Deployment of Central Forces – We request the immediate deployment of additional central security forces to Manipur to restore law and order, protect innocent civilians, and prevent further bloodshed. The presence of central forces will hopefully provide a neutral and authoritative presence that is needed to de-escalate tensions and stop the violence.
  2. A Transparent and Inclusive Peace Process – We appeal for the initiation of an inclusive and transparent peace process that involves all affected communities, local leaders, and civil society organizations. A meaningful dialogue should be facilitated to address the underlying causes of the conflict, promote mutual understanding, and pave the way for lasting peace.
  3. Swift Humanitarian Aid and Relief – As winter is approaching fast, we request Immediate relief be provided to the victims of the violence, particularly the displaced persons, the elderly, children, and those with special needs. Relief operations should ensure access to essentials such as food, water, medicine, winter clothes and shelter. Additionally, we urge the Government to work with faith-based organizations, NGOs, and community groups in providing humanitarian support.
  4. Accountability for Acts of Violence – We urge the authorities to ensure that all acts of violence are thoroughly investigated irrespective of ethnic differences and that those responsible for committing heinous acts are held accountable through the legal process. The people of Manipur deserve justice and a sense of security that their rights will be upheld under the law.

The intervention of the state authorities has often been viewed with suspicion by different communities, and there is a growing perception of partiality that undermines trust and confidence in the political process. The State Government must act as a neutral mediator and facilitator for peace, ensuring that the voices of all affected communities are heard and that no group is marginalized in the peace process.

The time to act is now. We appeal to the President of India, the Prime Minister, and the Home Minister to intervene urgently, not only to bring an end to the ongoing violence but also to restore harmony, trust, and cooperation among the communities in Manipur. The need for leadership, compassion, and a commitment to justice has never been more critical.

We also urge the Church and all people of faith to continue praying for peace and healing in Manipur, trusting that God’s love will help heal wounds, restore brokenness, and lead to lasting peace.

NCCI extends support to the Government’s efforts in restoring peace and stability in Manipur, offering collaborative initiatives that foster dialogue, reconciliation, and long-term harmony among all communities.

 

Rev. Asir Ebenezer 
General Secretary, NCCI

Building and Growing Churches for All: NCCI IDEA and ECI Chennai Diocese Hosts Disability Sensitization Session for 300 Pastors

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“Imagine a church where everyone feels they truly belong—where physical, emotional, and social barriers are removed, creating a community that embraces all.” With this vision, over 300 pastors from the Evangelical Churches of India (ECI) Chennai Diocese gathered for their monthly prayer fellowship, on 2nd November 2024 at ECI Zion Church Chennai. This included a thought-provoking disability sensitisation session. This initiative reflects ECI’s commitment to building an empathetic and accessible church environment, where disability inclusion is treated as essential to living out the Gospel’s message of love and acceptance. The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI), through its Indian Disability Ecumenical Accompaniment (IDEA), collaborated to lead the session, sharing tools and insights to help pastors make their congregations more welcoming for people with disabilities.

The session covered key aspects of disability inclusion, including understanding disabilities, addressing barriers to accessibility, shifting attitudes within the church, and the importance of building a church that truly embodies openness and support. A key feature was the introduction of the Engage Disability audit tool—a resource designed to guide churches in self-assessment, helping them identify areas to improve accessibility and advocate for the inherent value of each individual.

The gathering was further strengthened by the presence of ECI leaders such as The Most Rev. Dr. David Onisimu, Bishop President of ECI; The Rt. Rev. Dr. Kathiroli Manickam, Bishop of ECI Chennai Diocese and Chairperson of the ECI Lydia Women’s Fellowship; and Bishop Commissaries Rev. Dr. Duraiswamy, Rev. Sasi, and Rev. Susuai Paul. Their participation highlighted the diocese’s dedication to building a welcoming environment for all.

During the session, Bishop Kathiroli Manickam encouraged pastors to join Indian Sign Language (ISL) courses and observe Disability Advocacy Sunday, underscoring ECI’s mission to raise awareness and support for people with disabilities within its churches. Rev. Ribin John, Executive Secretary of NCCI-IDEA, led the session, inspiring pastors to take these learnings into their ministries. And be committed to making their churches accessible and responsive, marking a meaningful step in the diocese’s journey to becoming communities of genuine care, understanding, and support for all.

 

Rev. Ribin John
Executive Secretary, Ecumenical Fora

From Learning to Advocacy: The 3rd Batch of the NCCI IDEA ISL Course concludes

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The 3rd batch of the Indian Sign Language course concluded with a call to use the learning to minister and advocate on issues and concerns relating to persons with speech and hearing disabilities. The ISL course is conducted by the Indian Disability Accompaniment (IDEA) Program of the NCCI. The first batch began on September 23, 2023, International Sign Language Day. The third batch ran from August 17 to October 20, 2024.

Through the 3 batches, over a period of twelve months, 80 students trained themselves to communicate with those who use sign language as their primary language. Participants included students, professionals, pastors, missionaries, and in the latest course from the services as well.

Pastor G. Shrihari from the Nellore Deaf Fellowship delivered the valedictory address challenging trainees to confront the misconceptions surrounding the deaf community. Rev. Asir Ebenezer, NCCI General Secretary, encouraged the trainees to continue their learning through community engagement. Ms. Madhuriya, the ISL trainer, significantly enhanced the course’s experience.

Classes were held every Saturday and Sunday from 6 PM to 8 PM on Zoom, supplemented by daily homework via WhatsApp. It is hoped that this initiative will build friendships within the deaf community and inspires churches and public events to include sign language interpreters.

Reported by

Mr. Nelson Nag
Porgram Executive, NCCI-IDEA

Gustavo Gutierez – A Tribute

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National Council of Churches in India mourns the passing of Rev. Gustavo Gutiérrez, a pivotal figure in liberation theology, who died at 96. His influential work, particularly his landmark book A Theology of Liberation, reshaped Christian thought, prioritising the plight of the poor and marginalised. Gutiérrez famously declared that poverty is not just an economic condition but a moral scandal, challenging the church and society to address this reality.

His insights encouraged the contextualization of theology rooted in God’s liberating action throughout history. He advocated for theology as a “critical reflection on Christian praxis in light of God’s word,” inspiring the development of third-world theologies that emphasize the experiences of common people. Indian liberation theologies owe much to his vision.

Born in Lima, Peru, on June 8, 1928, Gutiérrez’s early battle with polio deepened his empathy for human suffering. He rejected the prevailing Neo-Scholasticism of his era, instead promoting a theology grounded in the lived experiences of oppression and inequality. His work gained particular resonance during the political turmoil of the 1960s and 1970s in Latin America, where people sought justice.

Gutiérrez reimagined salvation to include human liberation and social justice as essential to the Christian message. His concept of the “preferential option for the poor” became a guiding principle, urging Christians to elevate the voices of the marginalized.

Despite facing criticism for the perceived influence of Marxian thought, Gutiérrez maintained that liberation theology should be subject to critical examination rather than outright condemnation. This approach enriched the understanding of faith in action.

His theological legacy serves as a call to actively engage in the struggles against poverty and injustice. Gutiérrez emphasized that Christian love must translate into action, challenging the church to address not only individual suffering but also the systemic structures perpetuating inequality.

As we reflect on Rev. Gutiérrez’s life and work, we celebrate his unwavering dedication to advocating for the poor and marginalized. His voice will continue to inspire us to seek justice, support the oppressed, and embody a faith deeply intertwined with humanity’s struggles. May his memory guide us in our quest for a more just and equitable world.

On behalf of NCCI

Rev. Dr. Abraham Mathew
Executive Secretary, Commission on Policy Governance & Public Witness

Bishop Dr. Ezra Sargunam – A Tribute

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The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) acknowledges with deep respects the life and ministry of the Bishop Dr. Ezra Sargunam, the Father Bishop of the Evangelical Church in India (ECI) – the pioneer missionary and founder of the ECI.

The NCCI Community, and it’s leadership, expresses it’s deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the members of the family and to the members of the churches of the ECI spread throughout the length and breadth of this country and beyond it’s borders. May the spirit and legacy of the rich heritage of the ECI be sustained in you and your ministries of christian faith, and in the spiritual memory of your Father Bishop.

Bishop Dr. Ezra Sargunam is a committed Christian, who fashioned himself after the manner of our Master – Jesus the Christ. His commitment to preaching the gospel and making disciples “from every language and every tribe” is known to one and all. His commitment to the upliftment of the masses is noteworthy; his commitment to social justice and his call to political witness individually and severally was always seen to be born out of his deep rooted commitment to the Gospel. We thank God for his tenure as the Chair of the TN State Minority Commission. I must record with deep appreciation his role, along with several others, in the repealing of the TN Prohibition of forcible conversion Act – the only such Act to be repealed in the whole country. But for his influence in the Government of the time and the leadership of the Churches in Tamilnadu of that time represented by Bishop Dr. V. Devasahayam and Archbishop Peter Fernando we could not have done it.

Bishop Dr. Ezra Sargunam’s life is a witness to the faith of the measure of the mustard seed, and to power of responding to the call of God in deep obedience. It grows as a tree in which the birds of the air could nest, and the weary could rest in its abiding shade. He was an evangelist at heart, an enabler in attitude and an empowering agent – the ECI is a standing witness to who he was and what he believed; it can be said of him that he built the church of God and not a kingdom of his own.

Bishop Dr. Ezra Sargunam was a master planner. What ever he did, he did in scale. His ability for mass mobilisation is a gift from God and an expression of his faith. We note with humility that he pointed them all to God and not to himself.

His abilities to network with people in-country and across borders has been the hallmark of his sharing. He was a Christian who was a friend to peoples of all faiths and ideologies respecting their religious faith and ideological persuasions.

The NCCI Community, of which the ECI is one of the latest members, extends its solidarity and prayers to the members of the family, the leadership of the Church, and to every believer in the Church. May the God who built you up continue to journey with you, may the centrality of the Christian faith in which you are being built up sustain you, and may the in-dwelling spirit of God that unites us continue to propel you and us in the faith and witness of the Gospel of Jesus the Christ, as you are surrounded by witness of all those who have gone ahead of us – even your Father Bishop, Bishop Dr. Ezra Sargunam. Blessed be his memory, and sacred to the witness of Jesus the Christ.

All Glory and Honour be to our God for ever and ever, Amen.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCC India

Rev. Dr. Enos Dass Pradhan – A Tribute

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The National Council of Churches in India receives the news of the demise of Mr. Enos Das Pradan with deep sadness. He served as the Treasurer of the Church of North India Synod first, and then as its General Secretary. He served in various capacities including as the Office bearer of the Eastern Himalayas diocese for a long time.

During this time Mr. Pradhan gave good leadership to the Church of North India Synod as well the different dioceses of the CNI. He was a tall leader to whom the leaders of the Church looked up for direction and guidance.

Dr. Enos Das Pradhan has served as the Trustee of the CWM and the Deputy Moderator of the CWM Assembly. He gave leadership to the Communion of Churches in India as it’s Executive Secretary, as well as to the National Council of Churches in India as the Chairperson on the NCCI Commission for Policy Governance and Public Witness. During this time the NCCI started it’s Delhi operations again from the CNI Bhavan at Pandit Pant Marg, New Delhi.

We offer our deepest and heartfelt condolence to the family and assure them out ardent prayers

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCC India

Honouring Champions of Accessibility, Resilience and Inclusion: NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024

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The NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 have been officially launched! In a significant moment during the NCCI General Body meeting on September 13, 2024, the awards were unveiled by NCCI President H.G. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios. This second edition of the awards is set to celebrate exceptional contributions toward disability inclusion, spotlighting individuals and organisations working to create a more accessible world.

A Look Back: COVID Heroes Award 2022 The inaugural edition, known as the COVID Heroes Award 2022, was announced on December 15, 2022. This special award recognised those who provided vital support to persons with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the standout winners were Mr. Sandeep Paul, from the CSI School for the Intellectually Disabled, and the Shapiro Initiative, both celebrated for their tireless efforts in serving the disabled community during this challenging time.

NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 Categories

This year’s edition expands its focus with four unique award categories, ensuring that every aspect of disability inclusion and innovation is recognised:

  1. Persons with Disabilities: Celebrating individuals for their remarkable achievements and
  2. Individuals: Honouring those who have made a transformative impact on the lives of persons with
  3. Institutions: Acknowledging organisations for their exceptional contributions in care, sensitivity, and
  4. Innovative Interventions: Highlighting groundbreaking initiatives that improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities.

How to Nominate

Nominations are open until November 5, 2024, and the process is simple. Just scan the QR code provided on the official poster or clicking the link given bellow, which will direct you to the nomination form. Fill in the necessary details and submit your entry.

Be Part of the Change

The NCCI-IDEA Disability Awards 2024 seek to inspire and encourage more action toward creating an inclusive society. By recognising those who go above and beyond in their efforts, these awards shine a light on the importance of accessibility and dignity for all.

Stay tuned for the award ceremony in December 2024 and join us in celebrating those who are paving the way to a more inclusive future!

For More Info: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16gDCB_onj2NnJoHawzCt3uoHcCB6R6Di/view?pli=1

For Nomination : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/ 1FAIpQLSdRcLOTb4GF7n8zNt70jk4s1LSlopMBFS13HHksdHYV4eqVIQ/viewform?usp=pp_url

The journey of a thousand words begins with one sign

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Launch of NCCI Indian Sign Language Course 3.0

Young students from diffent churches such as the Salvation Army, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, Church of South India, Baptist Church of Nagaland and Andhra Evengelical Lutheran Church, hailing from the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Nagaland, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana joined online Indian Sign Language course 3.0 of The National Council of Churches in India – Indian Disability Ecumenical Accompaniment (NCCI-IDEA). The virtual inauguration ceremony was held on 17 August, 2024. 

The inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Pastor Praveen from the Deaf Fellowship Vijayawada, who inaugurated ISL 3.0, and the General Secretary of NCCI, Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer, who motivated the new batch to be change-makers in the church and society. He also emphasized NCCI’s contributions in advocating with the government, media, and constituent members to introduce sign language as a part of their public events and programs. 

Ms. Y. Madhurya, a dedicated ISL teacher, continues to be the strong pillar for the third batch. ISL 3.0 marks the beginning of a journey in sign language for the new batch, bringing hope for more friends and colleagues who can communicate with people who use sign language as their first language.

Reported by Nelson Nag,

Program Executive, IDEA

NCCI lends voice to today’s Doctors’ protest and those protesting all over the country

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As the medical communities rise up together, and the entire country with them, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) lends it’s voice to those that condemn the ‘rape and murder’ incident of the young PG Trainee in the R G Kar Medical College, Kolkata, on 9th of August 2024. The Government must bring the real culprits to book without any further delay, and take action on all those who have acted irresponsibly and without basic sensitivities.

Through periodic advisories the NCCI has been requesting the leadership of the Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India to maintain Zero- Tolerance to Gender Based Violence in its faith affirmations and articulations. The Churches in the membership of the NCCI and their units have been advised to be compliant to the provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Work Place (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act 2013, including formation of Internal Committees where statutorily mandated and conducting periodic orientation to staff as mandated under the Act.

Through the Thursdays in Black Campaign and the 16 Days of Activism (Nov 25 to Dec 10 every year) the NCCI community have been continuously challenged to address all forms of violence against women, and to work to address every form of such violence. The Churches have been in many ways addressing every form of toxic-masculinity and inviting young and old toward building up a society whose boys and gentlemen are shaped on premises of redemptive and transformative masculinities.

We offer sincere prayers that the soul of the departed be reposed in God, and everlasting Peace be upon the parents, siblings and all the members of the family.

We commit again to serious interventions in our Churches and Institutions all over the country to nurture and promote responsible and respectful behaviour between peoples of all Gender Identities, and to the safety of women and those others with gender vulnerabilities.

While it is a time to hang our head in shame, we also commit to tirelessly endeavour and leave no stone unturned in order that the women and girls in this country will be able to walk with their head held high anytime of day or night, wherever they like to go, and however they want.

In solidarity and with blessings of abiding Peace that comes from Jesus who was also unjustly killed, yet lives in all who dare death in its face. Let that power give us victory and guidance in this situation and always.

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI.

Independence Day 2024: Building from the bottom, one brick at a time…

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On the occasion of the 77th anniversary of the Independence Day (78th Independence Day) of the Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic of India, on Thursday the 15th of August 2024, we recognise with pride the enduring Sovereignty of the citizen.

Mandating a government which exists and functions as coalition governing partners, and identifying the need for an opposition in the democratic polity, the mind of the People of India is all but evident. What follows is the will of the government in power to heed this voice, and the role of the opposition to amplify the voice for the government to deliver and deliver efficiently.

Gram swaraj, captured in more than one ways in the panchayati raj system of participatory democratic governance, is one way in which we can continue to build on the gains of Mandate 2024. Through being thoroughly engaged in the panchayati raj form of local governance and its equivalence in the tribal and adivasi areas of the 5th and 6th Schedule States, the Indian citizen is capable of setting the country on the path of the ‘haven’ into which we would like to see our country awake.

Encouraging the citizen to participate in the process of local governance constructively and with a critical conscience, and acknowledging the role of the panchayats at the village to be involved in vision-casting for the country, are ways in which we can continue to grow as a people of this country – ‘leaving no one behind’.

While celebrating the hard-earned independence we as citizens of this great heritage that is India, together as those belonging to different faiths and ideologies, commit ourselves to work on the freedom of those who are enslaved through systems of religiosity, patriarchy, economic injustice, caste stratification, and such other enslavements relating to economic injustice and ethnic marginalisations.

We recognise a calling to hold each other accountable for what ails the ‘peoples’ of this country and an urgent call to address them together. We pray for a blessing of peace on our county and the entire neighbourhood and the world. We call on all Christians in the country to stand shoulder to shoulder with our fellow citizens in our common pursuit of Life-flourishing for ALL. Let us continue to build from the bottom, one brick at a time.

Jai Hind !

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCC India